Experimental and theoretical analysis of FRP-confined square lightweight aggregate concrete columns under axial compression

The structure of an FRP-confined square lightweight aggregate concrete (LWAC) column was investigated, and it was found to significantly decrease the self-weight while improving the deformation capacity and bearing capacity. Twelve FRP-confined LWAC columns and three unconfined LWAC columns underwent monotonic axial compression tests. The influences of the FRP thickness and type on the compressive performance, stress-strain relationship and strain cloud maps were investigated based on digital image correlation (DIC) technology. Both types of FRP materials demonstrated a noticeable enhancement in both the strength and deformation capacity of LWAC, with CFRP having the greatest effect on strength and BFRP having the greatest effect on ductility. Compared to LWAC columns without confinement, the compressive strength of LWAC confined by BFRP or CFRP increased by 9.4 similar to 21.9% and 24.9 similar to 53.3%, respectively, and the ultimate strain increased by 10.6-14.2 times and 8.0-10.9 times, respectively, with increasing the thickness of FRP. DIC technology was used to accurately measure changes in the strain and the crack development of the specimens, thereby obtaining an accurate rupture strain of the FRP material. The existing models were evaluated using test data, and new models were proposed for FRP-confined square LWAC.